Halloween is quickly approaching. But if the idea of spending upwards of $50 on an itchy and cheaply made “sexy-children’s-TV-character” costume is giving you an anxiety attack, don’t worry—you are not alone. That’s why I have compiled a list of 5 clever (and some not so clever) costumes for those of us who are too broke and/or lazy to deal with the horror that is Halloween costume shopping. All or most of these items can be found in the typical closet (or a friend’s closet!) or can be made with absolutely minimal effort and supplies.
ROSIE the riveter
A gender studies and Halloween classic, all you need to complete this look is a denim shirt, red lipstick, and a red bandana (or scarf). Not needed: a man.
CAT burglar
This costume can be as simple as dressing all in black, or as complex as a cat woman body suit and stilettos. I would suggest somewhere in between. If you do not happen to own cat ears they can be easily made by cutting triangles out of paper and attaching to a headband.
CHIQUITA banana girl
Do you own a blue or brightly colored maxi skirt? Perfect. Maxi skirt+ Crop top + fruit on your head = Chiquita banana girl. To attach the fruit, tie a scarf around your head and wedge the fruit into the scarf.
KE$HA
This costume might be the absolute easiest. Rip up some tights and wear a skirt and some boots. Put on your makeup without a mirror. Douse yourself with glitter and hairspray your hair upside down. If you have anything that looks like it was made with animal parts—fur, feathers—wear that. Go nuts.
SHARK
For the laziest of the lazy. Wear grey. Make a fin with paper and a headband and wear it on your head. Bonus points for carrying around a one-armed Barbie doll and smearing fake blood on your mouth.